Derek Boogaard Found Dead at 28

The New York Rangers have announced that forward Derek Boogaard has passed away at the age of 28.

Boogaard was found dead in his apartment in Minneapolis on Friday.

"Derek was an extremely kind and caring individual," said New York Rangers president and general manager Glen Sather in a statement on the team's Web site.

"He was a very thoughtful person, who will be dearly missed by all those who knew him. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and teammates during this difficult time."

Boogaard made many numerous charitable contributions. In his one season with the Rangers, Boogaard began "Boogaard’s Booguardians," a program that hosted military members and their families at Rangers home games.

Boogard just finished his sixth season in the NHL, his first in New York with the Rangers. Prior to that, he had spent five NHL seasons with the Minnesota Wild.

This news is extremely sudden and our hearts go out to Derek Boogaard and his family.